### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **sâhêd**, represented by `{{H7717}}`, refers to a **witness** or **record**. Its definition is derived from an unused root that means to testify. This specific term is exceptionally rare, appearing only **1 time** in **1 unique verse** in the entire Bible, highlighting its very specific application.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The sole appearance of `{{H7717}}` is found in the book of Job. In a moment of deep anguish and in response to the accusations of his friends, Job declares his innocence by looking to a higher power for vindication. He states, "my witness is in heaven, and my **record** is on high" [[Job 16:19]]. Here, **sâhêd** is used to signify an enduring, incorruptible account of Job's life, preserved in a divine place, far beyond the flawed judgments of men.
### Related Words & Concepts
Two key words in its immediate context help illuminate the meaning of `{{H7717}}`:
* `{{H5707}}` **ʻêd** (witness): This word appears in parallel with **sâhêd** in [[Job 16:19]]. It refers to a **witness** or testimony and is used frequently in legal contexts, such as the command not to bear false **witness** [[Exodus 20:16]]. God also presents Himself as a swift **witness** against injustice [[Malachi 3:5]], establishing a theme of divine observation and testimony.
* `{{H4791}}` **mârôwm** (on high): This term, defined as an elevated place or altitude, describes the location of Job's **record**. It consistently refers to the heavens or a place of divine exaltation, as when God is described as the one who "dwelleth on **high**" [[Isaiah 33:5]] or who sent help "from **above**" [[2 Samuel 22:17]]. This word solidifies that the **record** is kept with God.
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{H7717}}` is significant despite its single use, centering on the concept of divine justice and memory.
* **A Divine Record:** The word points to the belief that a perfect and true account of a person's life is kept by God. Job's appeal to his heavenly **record** `{{H7717}}` is an act of faith that God sees the truth even when it is obscured on earth.
* **Vindication and Hope:** In a context of suffering and false accusation, the concept of a heavenly **record** provides a foundation for hope. It asserts that ultimate judgment belongs to God, who is the keeper of a true and final testimony.
* **The Nature of Testimony:** Paired with **ʻêd** (witness), **sâhêd** distinguishes between the act of witnessing and the permanent evidence of that witness. It suggests that Job’s vindication is not just a momentary declaration but an established fact, recorded "on high" `{{H4791}}`.
### Summary
In summary, `{{H7717}}` provides a powerful and specific term for a divinely held **record**. Though found only once, its placement in [[Job 16:19]] gives it profound theological importance. It encapsulates the hope of the righteous for ultimate justice, grounding this hope in the belief that God Himself keeps a perfect and enduring testimony that will one day serve as the final word.
TRV